Last Friday, HDNet’s Inside MMA crew got the scoop on Alistair Overeem’s unexpected firing from Strikeforce. Fast forward seven days and the high-definition network wound up landing the first interview with the controversial heavyweight.

Overeem was quite candid with his answers, covering his multitude of minor injuries, threats from Strikeforce regarding his removal from the Heavyweight Grand Prix, calling their bluff when they wanted to nix him from the tourney, as well as discussions of a new contract.

While most fans thought UFC president Dana White was the one that ultimately pulled the trigger on Overeem’s release, the now-former Strikeforce champ never mentions White once. In fact, he fingers Strikeforce CEO Scott Coker as the man that laid down the ultimatum.

Of interesting note, Overeem revealed Strikeforce was willing to offer him a contract extension, as he had only one bout remaining on his current deal, but the UFC’s little brother insisted on him forgoing all other fight promotions.

Also, Overeem was unsure how his severed relationship with Strikeforce will affect a possible future inside the Octagon. However, he was adamant that he eventually wants to play ball in the big leagues.

Please click the media player below to watch Overeem’s interview with HDNet: